A moment of silence will be observed at the start of the Super Rugby Pacific clash between the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua and the Blues this evening, in honor of Fiji 7s rugby Olympian Josaia Raisuqe who passed away in a car accident yesterday in France.
Fijian Drua’s General Manager Commercial, Shane Hussein, acknowledged the significance of this moment, emphasizing that it was only fitting to recognize Raisuqe’s contributions. He had been a vital member of both the national sevens team and the broader rugby community in Fiji and France.
“Our players, Iosefo Masi and Selestino Ravutaumada, were teammates with Josaia in the national sevens squad for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Most of the players also knew him well. We are all saddened by this loss and extend our deepest condolences to Josaia’s family and friends.”
In a statement issued today, the Fiji Rugby Union described Raisuqe as a ‘gifted athlete whose rugby journey inspired many.’
“He first rose to prominence on the global stage unde coach Ben Ryan, debuting in the 2015 Hong Kong 7s playing alongside national 7s coach Osea Kolinisau and quickly making his mark with 14 tries across five tournaments.”
“His raw talent, powerful running, and fearless play emobied the spirit of Fijian rugby.”
Raisuqe was from Lutu in Naitasiri and was playing for French Club, Castres Olympique at the time of his death.
He was 30 years old.
